Town Hall Tree Dedicated To Those Fighting Substance Abuse

BRAINTREE, MA — Tuesday was the kickoff for a series of events that the town will hold in recognition of National Recovery Month.

Outside of Town Hall, town officials and Mayor Joseph Sullivan dedicated the Braintree Recovery Tree to those who are battling substance abuse.

“The tree represents life and that recovery is possible,” Councilor Shannon Hume said.

Sullivan said the tree underlined the town’s mission when it comes to helping those entering recovery.

“All of us can all assist with lifting others in a time of need. This is really important that we’re here for this moment, but we also understand that the issue of recovery and importance of recovery is awareness, making people knowledgeable that we are here to offer assistance, and when someone benefits from that recovery, that assistance, it has a ripple effect, they can help others as well," Sullivan said.

Following the dedication, the recovery flag was raised at the flag pole in front of Town Hall.

On Sept. 29, the plaque for the tree will be revealed.

More events are planned for the month. The Braintree Community Partnership on Substance Use has a meeting on Sept. 20 at Town Hall and will feature three speakers - one in short-term recovery, one in long-term recovery, and the parent with a child in recovery. A free Family Fun Day and cookout is scheduled for Sept. 23 at Town Hall from noon to 4 p.m.

Image: Members of the Braintree Community Partnership on Substance Abuse speak in front of the Recovery Tree. Credit: Dan Libon